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Myth vs Fact: Corn Syrup in Baby Formula

Myth vs Fact: Corn Syrup in Baby Formula

Distinguish between myths and facts about corn syrup in baby formula. Discover more about what corn syrup solids are, how they compare to high-fructose corn syrup and what is in infant formula.

 

Myth

Corn syrup solids are the same thing as high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS).

Fact

Because both ingredients originate from corn starch, their names can be misleading. But they are NOT the same.

Corn syrup is glucose polymers - long chains of glucose linked together - derived from corn. To make corn syrup solids, corn syrup is dehydrated until most of the water has been removed. Corn syrup solids provide energy for your baby. Plus, they are easily digested even if your baby is sensitive to lactose or sucrose.
High-fructose corn syrup has been processed such that some of the glucose has been converted to fructose. It is used to increase the sweetness level of processed foods (e.g. cookies and ketchup) and soft drinks.

Myth

Enfamil® products contain high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS).

Fact

No. As always, Enfamil products do not use HFCS as a source of carbohydrates. Some of our lactose-free and reduced-lactose products such as Nutramigen® with Enflora™ LGG®*, Enfamil® Gentlease®, and Enfamil® ProSobee® use corn syrup solids as a source of carbohydrates. However, corn syrup solids are NOT the same as HFCS.

High-fructose corn syrup is not used as a source of carbohydrate in any of our products”

Christina J. Valentine, MD, MS, RD, FAA
Medical Director, North America, Mead Johnson Nutrition
 

Myth

Corn syrup solids aren't safe for my baby.

Fact

Remember, corn syrup is an important energy source and infant formulas are rigorously evaluated for safety by national and international authorities, including the FDA. According to the FDA Code of Regulations, corn syrup solids are generally recognized as safe for use in infant formula and the Infant Nutrition Council of American agrees.

Corn syrup solids have been shown in clinical studies and many years of consumer-use to be safe and support normal growth and development in infants.”

Infant Nutrition Council of America
 

 

Myth

Corn syrup solids may not be safe for a baby who is prone to allergies.

Fact

The corn syrup solids used in Enfamil® products are made from hydrolyzed corn starch and are considered hypoallergenic. Corn syrup solids provide energy for the body and are clinically shown to be readily digestible and well-tolerated by infants who may have issues with other carbohydrates such as sucrose or lactose.

Enfamil does not have sucrose (or table sugar) as a source of carbohydrate in our infant formulas. Now that you have the facts straight about corn syrup in baby formula, discover more about what important ingredients are in infant formula like DHA. Learn about the importance of DHA for babies.

All information on Enfamil, including but not limited to information about health, medical conditions, and nutrition, is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for a healthcare professional's medical identification, advice, or management for specific medical conditions. You should seek medical care and consult your doctor or pediatrician for any specific health or nutrition issues. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment, care, or help because of information you have read on Enfamil.